@@ThePinoyAggie The Z7 and Z7II are great cameras for landscape photographers, love my Z7 II (my main camera). I'm mainly wondering fi we are going to get left behind in the landscape photography genre of photography. The Z8 and Z9 are too big - they take up way too much room in the pack and pack space matters to me as I hike distances over rugged terrain. I want the advantage of mirrorless from smaller camera bodies (like the Z6 and Z7 line). Ultimately, I want some of those desirable features from the Z8 and Z9 line to trickel down into the smaller Z7 body to make and even better landscape photography camera. Plus, less emphasis on some of the video features in the camera might help reduce the price a bit and also keep a powerful, but affordable camera system on the market from Nikon. Thanks for the comment!
I shoot landscapes, events, dancers/models, portraits and owned a Z6 II and Z7 II. I used them both for each, but recently purchased the Z6 III. The new body is very capable of photographing landscapes but it will be my “peoples” camera and I may relegate the Z7 II for landscapes. The 6 II has since been sold.
@@DezSantana I tend to use my Z6II as the "people" camera and my Z7II as the landscape camera as well. My Z6II does get used as a backup/secondary body on landscape photography outings though - it does good!
The Z6 line is not targeted at landscape photographers, that is why there is a Z7 line. There are many reasons why they keep resolution at 24MP (file size, readout speed, high iso noise etc) which are not huge concerns for landscape photographers, but are a big concern for wedding and event photographers. The sensor shield is one thing I agree with! It is ridiculous in a third generation of camera, there is still nothing over the sensor protecting it when changing lenses!! The R&D team thinks all photographers work in a controlled indoor environment. Its ridiculous.
The Z7 line is definitely stronger for landscape photographers. I'm just hoping there is something in the roadmap that keeps us in mind, i.e. the Z7 III. I do carry a Z6II into the field as my backup/secondary camera body. I'm just saying Nikon didn't really provide a good reason to spend the $2500 and upgrade it to a III as they released it. (And again, still a Nikon fan, the Z6III looks like a great hybrid camera to help keep them competitive in today's market - and I am glad they are staying competitive).
I shoot with a Z8 and Z9, with most of my use-case being movement shots, and perhaps 15 to 20 percent landscape. I might be moved to an updated Z7iii, if it ever happens and if they improve the autofocus and fps versus the Z7ii. (I am a previous owner of the Z6ii, Z7ii, D850 and a couple of D750's.) In my movement shots, I can't always fill the frame with my subject and the lower resolution of the Z6ii became problematic for me when I did a substantial crop. But, if a Z7iii had at least 45.6MP, a significantly better AF than the Z7ii (no blackout!), a form-factor similar to the Z6iii, and at least 14-15fps, and the Z6iii EVF, if would be a great travel, hiking and landscape camera.
Yeah - for fast moving subjects, the Z8/Z9 with their improved AF would be welcomed. I do like the ability to crop a little more heavily with the higher MP in the Z7/Z7II or Z8/Z9, so a Z7III and improved AF with the smaller form factor of the Z7 body-style would be super nice to see!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography The Z8 is the same as my old D850 and is Not Big .. If you ever had the D800/D810 0r D850 then thats the Feel of the Z8 = same size I am 73 and dont notice the Size/weight at all
@@Mr09260 I think the d850 is too big as well! And while I should be more weight conscious, it is really the size that bugs me. I already have the main camera body, backup camera body, lenses, and then my YT video/audio gear, plus snacks, clothing layers - I am sensitive to how large the camera body itself is. The z6 and z7 are near perfect size and to me, one of the advantages of mirrorless - lots of power in a smaller form factor.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography The D850 I get the battery that lasts all day and more, and the optical viewfinder is the best for shooting panoramas hand held at times.
Well said. Z6 III is very impressive, great for video and an all-round camera. Having bought a Z7 II (refurbished nearly a year ago) for primarily landscape usage, I could not be more pleased. 45 mp I consider the sweet spot for me. The sensor is great! In extremely low light it does require manual focus. The images are great. An upgrade would be a Z8 but image improvement would likely not be noticed. So, maybe that is the upgrade and not a Z 7 III. Surely helpful for Thomas Heaton and Nigel Danson but certainly not me. Nor would I want a 60 mp sensor.
Yep - always happy to see Nikon releasing nice cameras, even when they aren't specifically for my niche! I feel pretty good about my Z7 II, and despite me wishing the Z6 III had 33MP, I have no desire to see a Z7 III go above the 45MP we currently have. 45MP seems to work out pretty well for me.
Couldn't have put it any better, Jeffrey, the viewfinder and low light ability sound great, but it is not an upgrade for a Landscape Photographer. I feel they will definitely be announcing a higher resolution Z7III later this year, I bet they are already in the field trying it, if they get it right it will be a runaway best-seller for Landscape.
Nah, from a corporate view an upgraded Z7 would make little sense. They got the Z8 if you wanted better specs. It would be nearly impossible packing the Z6III novelties into a Z7 AND maintain the price range. And a more expensive Z7 would be too close to Z8 territory.
@@ilduro2 I think for a Z7III possibility they need to ignore the video features and tailor it to still shooters - landscape photographers, studio portraits (or at the very least, non-event settings). Don't make the upgrades to the video, put in the faster processor solely for the AF improvements, fix some of the camera body design (keep the camera body Z6/Z7 sized - I don't like the larger camera body of the Z8 - that's why I didn't upgrade to it). That would let them push some of these features into a landscape/stills photography camera and keep the price down. It is definitely getting a little crowded though on their camera body offering - so it might be at some point i just need to suck it up and use the bigger body of something like the Z8. It just annoys me as one of the selling points of mirrorless was smaller, more packable camera bodies and they're getting as big as DSLRs again.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography Couldn't agree more, Jeffrey. Though from a corporate point of view, Nikon have put in the R&D whether video be included or not. Now they want their return, not open two production lines and if some people move up to the Z8, even better (for Nikon). I, too, don't want the larger body. At the same time I am scratching my head over why there is now a Zf and the new Z6 catering to a similar market. Oh well, perhaps we should just concentrate on our pictures instead. Cheers!
I was waiting for the Z6III for quite some time but finally jumped to the Z8 a month before its release. I already have a Z7 which I paired with a Z6, but I sold the Z6 as well as a D850 and some f mount lenses to jump to the Z8. While I shoot a lot of other genres than Landscape that benefit from the Z8, I find the improvements in the Z8 make it a fantastic landscape camera. Better viewfinder, vertical tilting rear screen, illuminated buttons are only a few of the benefits. Others are better viewfinder assist tools and options, more buttons and better customization options. The weight factor was one I was concerned about, but I found the extra weight is only marginal and it feels better in my hands. My Z7 is now my backup, and I enthusiastically grab the Z8 first in my outings
Thanks for sharing your experience with the Z8! What do you think about the extra size of the Z8? Does it bother you or did you get used to it? My size concerns are more with how it fits in the camera bag for longer hikes and with other gear than once it is out of the bag and in hand (if that makes sense).
When I first got it, I was a bit concerned. But after using it the concerns diminished. It’s dimensionally somewhat similar to the D850, but a bit slimmer. It fits nicely in my bag and doesn’t take up much more room than my Z7. I found my big issue with the D850 was its weight and size when paired with bigger and heavier F-mount lenses. The Z lenses are smaller and lighter. The Z8 feels really nice in my hands. I recently shot a wedding reception with it and carried it all day with no issue, and I’m 70, so I tend to be sensitive to weight issues. I also found the benefits I noted are so nice to have on landscape shoots, I would really miss them returning to a Z7/II
I also think a Z7III is a long time coming if ever. It confuses the line-up. You can expect to see the Z8 on sale more at the $3500 price. With the increase price on the Z6III it leaves too little space between it and a newer Z 7. Feature wise, the only route Nikon could take is more megapixels which we don’t need. The current lineup of top end Nikons is pretty complete now.
@@ericlarson6180 Good to know that one can get used to it. I think I'll be content with my Z7II for a good bit yet, but maybe I should quit getting so hung up on the dimensions of the Z8...
@@ericlarson6180 I think Nikon could figure out how to slot it in - if I were trying to, I would keep the video specs nearly the same and just update the processor, get the lowlight AF, make some the screen enhancements and essentially polish up the current model with some of the updates from the other models (minus the video). That "handicaps" it as predominantly stills camera for landscape photographers, headshots, portraits and would let them keep a lower price on it, so as not to compete with the Z8 - which would be what you want for a hybrid camera. I do agree, a big MP increase isn't really what I'm after - especially from the Z7 line, pretty happy with the balance of MP to dynamic range we currently have. I hear conflicting rumors on a Z7III - so too early to tell for sure.
No, Nikon didn't ignore landscape photographers, they just listened to the Z6 base who never asked for more resolution. Landscape photographers have the Z7 II or Z8 for that. Z6 shooters didn't ask for more resolution. The 5 or 6 Z6 shooters that wanted more resolution paled in comparison to the countless Z6 shooters who wanted better video at the same resolution. We got the perfect camera. A smaller, lighter, superior low light camera to the Z8 and the 33mp A7IV competitor. Glad Nikon ignored "more resolution" clowns.
I think that is a super solid setup. I use my Z7II for landscape primarily, my Z6II comes with me as a backup camera body or to let me use a second camera at sunset/sunrise. For any event (including running races) or portrait work I still do, I tend to grab the Z6II first and the Z7II acts as the backup body in those cases.
The Z50 is a nice camera - I use a Z30 for some of my videos and in a pinch have been known to use it as a secondary camera while my main camera is on a tripod waiting for some scene to unfold.
I've been looking into the Nikon-verse lately, out of curiosity and a desire to go back to FF from Fuji X-line; thanks for the video. More and more, it looks like Z7II is going to be the one - primarily because of the sensor, and my non-existent need for video features. It doesn't look like a Z7III is on the horizon; on the flip side, a new camera release almost inevitably means deals on existing cameras, and by all accounts, the Z7II seems to be very relevant inspite of it being a bit old.
The Z7II is such a great camera. It is a really solid landscape photography camera. Even if they release a Z7III I've been trying to think what would entice me to upgrade at this point from a Z7II and I think it is a pretty short list!
If you are doing landscape photo and video I think there are two paths forward to consider. The Z6III, which will have video covered very nicely, but still be at 24.5MP. If you haven't found that a limitation with the Z6 (the resolution), then this could be a good path to go. If you find 24.5MP limiting or just want more resolution then the Z8 starts to look like a good option. It has great video and you get the higher resolution. The downside, in my opinion, is that the camera body is bigger - which I am not a fan of. But it doesn't seem to bother a lot of folks. Hope that helps!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography Thanks. No 24 MP hasnt been a issue so far. And size matters as I do hike a lot and want to keep it as light as possible. Would be nice with some news anout a z7iii already now
@@stigfloberghagenphotography Yeah, I much prefer the size of the Z6 and Z7 than the larger Z8. Would love to see a Z7III come out with the 45MP and some of the low-light features and such from the Z8 and/or the Z6III.
Completely agree. No compelling reasons to move from my Z7 II, and don't want to spend another $1K for a bigger, heavier Z8. I could see me sticking with the Z7 II for years if nothing tempting is announced. It's a great landscape camera.
The Z7 II is such a great landscape photography camera! I also could see sticking with it for many more years as well. Now, I'm apt to get tempted by some future model release from Nikon, but at the end of the day, my camera is certainly not the thing holding me back in my landscape photography work!
All cameras makers are pushing ahead with making hybrid cameras. Unless something changes, the days of a top line stills/landscape full-frame cameras may be over. Unfortunately medium format is very expensive and lens choice are currently limited (and very expensive).
@@jimbruton9482 Definitely still hoping for something that caters to us still photo folks. And really, though I am landscape focused these days, even fashion portrait photographers and such should be wanting just a good, solid stills photo camera.
Are you currently using a 24 MP camera to shoot landscapes? I certainly wouldn’t. I’d be shooting with/waiting for a Z 7III, hopefully with the 60 MP Sony sensor.
My primary camera is a Z7II, so I do appreciate the higher MP it has, I am a habitual cropper. With that said, I usually carry a second camera, a Z6 II and I use it all the time handheld while my main camera is on the tripod waiting for light or clouds and it does a decent job. I would be okay if a Z7 III comes out if if sticks with 45MP for it.
I would not purchase the Z6III for landscape photography. It was designed for wedding, event, and sports photographers. I don't think that there will be too long of a wait for the Z7III.
Agreed - the Z6 III seems a really strong hybrid camera, fast moving things, wildlife, and some really strong video features, but not a lot for landscape photographers. I hope they announce a Z7III, that would be pretty awesome. Though, I'm trying to think exactly what I would want from it that would make it an obvious upgrade over the Z7II. Tilt or flippy screen, low-light AF, increased dynamic range would be awesome, like really push the envelope and set the bar for landscape photographers level of increased dynamic range.
@@VIDEOVISTAVIEW2020 I mean, the flippy screen would let me not carry a Z30 into the field and just get double duty from my backup/seconday camera body.
Jeffrey, even though the Z6III tries to cater to a wide audience, landscape photographers were not among its prime targets. For more MPs, there are the Z7II and the Z8. Instead, Nikon traded a very usable 24 MP for speed and better low light capabilities. To me that is more relevant as I have become increasingly versatile in my choice of genres over the years. I see many of my mates on the same path. Also, Nikon is trying to claw back market share with shooters creating own content on social media and the video community in general. For all those intents and purposes, I believe the Z6III presents an excellent choice being the Jack of many Trades - even if not all.
I do agree with you, the Z6III is a great jack of may trades and a really solid release from Nikon. Always happy to see Nikon remain competitive in the market. This video did approach it from a much narrower perspective of just the landscape genre - but if you add in even just say wildlife, the Z6III suddenly seems even better and a better fit. And if you start to add in other genres like sports or lowlight event photography, it also does quite well.
The best Nikon cameras I ever owned for landscape photography are the D810 and D850. The dynamic range of these two cameras are nuts! Which X-mount Nikon camera for landscape photography actually comes close to the D810 & D850 you think?
Those were both amazing cameras. And don't get me wrong, I am still a Nikon fan and am super glad they have cameras out there competitive in the market. And even if I don't think the Z6 III is the right camera for me, it is still a great camera and hope it sells like crazy! As for dynamic range, the Z7II holds its own on that front - here's a DxO Mark chart for the d850, Z8, and Z7II compared: www.dxomark.com/Cameras/Compare/Side-by-side/Nikon-D850-versus-Nikon-Z7II-versus-Nikon-Z8___1177_1361_1386
I still value high dynamic range in a camera. In fact, if there was something that could get me to upgrade to a Z7III (if one comes out), it would be a significant increase in dynamic range. Yes, software is powerful and exposure bracketing certainly works well to work around it, I am ultimately a lazy photographer. If I can capture the range in one shot - count me in!
The Z6III is a crucial shot across Sony’s bow to let the world know Nikon doesn’t want to trail behind in the hybrid market. For me personally it’s the perfect video centric companion for my Z9. But no, it doesn’t bring much new to the party for landscape photography.
For sure! And I am glad to see Nikon fire that shot as well! A rising tide lifts all boats (cameras), so I hope Nikon does amazing with sales of this new camera!
So tell us what features and mp landscape photographers really need? (disclaimer - I hardly ever take landscape photos - they have all been done - and I do not like the way people edit them with unrealistic colours)
Oh now - there are tons and tons of landscape photos that haven't been done, but I get the sentiment if you are only seeing the big iconic scenes over and over. Small scenes landscape photography has tremendous amount of room to explore in. Either way, I get landscape photography isn't everyone's thing - and nothing wrong with that! Plenty of genres out there to play in! Your question is a good one, I've touched on it a bit in a few of my past videos, but things I'd like to see in my next camera body: * 45MP or so is just about right for me, Z7 has that * A 2-way tilt or flippy screen * Good Vibration Reduction * Good low-light Autofocus for those pre-sunrise and post-sunset times * A Camera body no bigger than the Z6/Z7 line today * lighter (but rugged) camera body materials to reduce the weight of the camera body * A sensor shield would be nice * Any increase in dynamic range they can figure out would great * Any reduction in noise they can get would be nice too * I don't really need anything but the most basic of video, mainly b-roll of scenes for me and the YT channel probably makes this one even niche among landscape photographers I think those are features I'd like to see in a future camera body. Thanks for the question!
I think Nikon will need to update the z7ii eventually. If not they will be leaving a lot of z7 series users with no choice but to switch to a more expensive, larger and heavier camera or switch brands. I’ve really been thinking about just getting a used z7ii for a smaller option to my d810 for travel. But I still do like my D810.
I hope they do - or at least come model into that slot. I mean, I know I approach this as a landscape photographer, but really - high-end headshots, portraits, etc are also all served really well by a super solid stills camera without all the video baggage. Real AF is important to them, but I feel like that is easy to incorporate into the new cameras as the processors get faster, their algorithms for focus improve, etc. The Z7II is a great camera if you're looking to make the mirrorless jump. I am super happy with mine!
Not at all, If I am a landscape photographer, I can use Z7II, Z7 or even D850, which all are in great prices. Z8/Z9/Z6III are mostly for wildlife and videographers
Yeah - those AF systems in the Z8/Z9/Z6III sounds pretty awesome for people photographing fast moving objects! And they also have very capable video qualities a well. It does make me wonder where landscape photographers fit on Nikon's roadmap though moving forward or if we're just left with the Z7II.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I am sure there will be a Z7III coming soon, I'd guess a new 60MP sensor similar to 7RV. For wildlife, Nikon is a no-brainer 1st choose, that is just me 🤣
I'm still waiting on a high dynamic range, high mp 60mp, great auto focus camera. The z6iii doesn't do it for me. The z9 and z8 aren't for me. I do not need crazy speed and crazy video specs. I want to be able to put my really good apsc lenses on the camera and still have a lot of resolution to play with
Real close to my wants. Would love to see a breakthrough in technology on dynamic range - that would be such a win for landscape photographers. I would be fine with 60MP, but I can live with 45MP as well if that’s what it takes. I feel like that is how Nikon slots in a Z7III, lessen the video specs, make the stills and overall camera body the best of the best while retaining Z6/Z7 camera body size. That lets them price it under the Z8/Z9, and folks that want the super good video, ultrafast and tweaked AF can go up to the Z8/Z9 for those features.
My wish from Nikon would be to introduce a Z7III with 60+ megapixels, improved dynamic range and better autofocus. I.E, market a photocentric camera in their product line. I use Canon now but as their future seems to be in hybrid videocentric cameras I would switch to Nikon ASAP!
@@jimbruton9482 I would definitely still like to see a photocentric Z7III. All the hybrid cameras from many of the brands make me feel like folks still doing primarily photos are being left out!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I think there's more of us than either the camera marketing depts. or the RUclipsrs that only talk about FPS, 4k, 6k, 8k raw video think. It's becoming a big turnoff to me. Thinking through and determining the ideal composition is more creative than turning on a video button. (thanks for letting me rant a bit).
@@jimbruton9482 I’m right there with you! (And I say that as a RUclipsr that does do video - I just have dedicated cameras for the video features I need). For my main landscape photography camera, I just want a good, reliable modern camera. Thanks or the comments!
Sensor tech for stills photography has pretty much peaked... The only reason new cameras seem so "video focused" is becasue that's an area where there's still tech gains to be made. Dynamic range improvements have pretty much plateaued, so you're not likely to improve upon your z7ii. Everything else you mentioned wanting in a new camera, the z8 pretty much already has. It has much better low light autofocus than the z7ii (thanks to the 10x more powerful Expeed7 processor), better tilt screen, and the nice sensor shield.... just just got similar VR to your z7ii... but as a landscape photographer, I dunno why that matters, cuz you're going to be on a tripod anyway, right? I personally upgraded from the z7ii to the z8 about a year ago, and haven't looked back. It's just a much, much better camera all around (and I don't shoot ANY video).
I hold hope that there will be some breakthrough! ;) I almost upgraded to the Z8, but the body size I find problematic. I really like the Z7 (or Z6) form factor, just the right size - feels good in hand, and doesn't take up so much room in the camera bag (which I value, especially with all the video gear I also haul into the field for the channel). I'd be fine seeing the video features stagnate, with more emphasis on some of the features you called out (i.e. faster processor, lowlight AF). As for the VR, I am a heavy tripod user, but I also will happily handhold On most big outings I take both the Z7II and the Z6II with me, the Z7II goes up on the tripod, waiting for the right light or clouds, the Z6II I use handheld while I wait. Let's me capture more photos of different things without disturbing my main composition. Appreciate the insight!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I have a Z6ii and a Z7ii but I want to change them to a Z8. You don't intend to use one camera and its weight will be less than two anyway.
@@vitalisvasylius7390 I tend to carry two camera bodies into the field on my bigger photography outings - the Z7II and the Z6II. Partially to have a backup camera if I've traveled a distance for the trip. But also as a secondary body that I use while in the field. I'm going to wait and see if a Z7III comes out this year - if not, I'll consider what my next steps are. One thing that is starting to grow on me with the Z6III is the flippy screen - now that would let me use it as a secondary body *and* replace my Z30 as my video camera, which could lead to less stuff in my pack. Just not real keen on paying $2500 for that, but maybe at some super sale in the future it could start to make more sense.
The Z6 III can't be all things to all people - it is intended as an all-round hybrid camera, do people equally complain about Canon's R6 II in this regard? If you want more resolution, there are other options in Nikon's lineup - the Z7 II is perfectly capable for landscapes, and if you need the combination of fast AF + high resolution, that's where the Z8 comes in. A higher resolution sensor in the Z6 III would almost certainly have meant slower sensor readout speed (see the 33MP sensor in the Sony A7IV), leading to increased rolling shutter, worse video performance, and probably slower autofocus - assuming they couldn't go fully stacked sensor at this price point (and then overlap with the Z8/9). These are obviously issues they wanted to avoid in this sort of model.
Agreed - it can't be all things to all people. And it does seem to be a very strong hybrid camera, glad for Nikon on that front and I hope it sells well for them! I love my Z7II, I just wonder where landscape photographers fall on their roadmap with this release of the Z6III. Great points on the downside of the higher resolution and what potential impact it would have had on the rolling shutter issues, video performance and autofocus, probably would have weakened it as a hybrid camera - appreciate the insights!
Right now for full frame mirrorless, the best options for a more "pure" landscape/portrait/stills camera is the Z7 II, Canon R5 I, and the Sony A7RV (w/60 mp).
It's not interesting for me for landscapes. It doesn't really offer anything that the Z6 or Z7 don't already offer plus I hate flippy screens. It's clearly aimed at video shooters which is fine. The best mirrorless I've tried for landscapes was probably the S1/S1R if only it wasn't so big and bulky. If they came out with a slimmed down S1 with maybe 32mp and everything else the same that would be perfection.
I could probably forgive a flippy screen, though I prefer just a 2-way tilt like the Z8 has. That way awkward low or high portrait composed shots would be a little easier to see the screen. I have a GX85 and G9, but have not tried the S1/S1R, maybe I'll need to check one out!
Let's not forget that Nikon has never been about making a landscape camera. Back in the 70s and 80s when Nikon was the king of Kodachrome for National Geographic and Sports Illustrated all of the professional landscape photography was done on 4x5. That being said I am mainly a landscape photographer. My Fujifilm GFX50R weighs less than a Z8 and has that amazing and accurate depth of field scale built in. The incredible resolution is great for landscape. My main lenses are the GF 20-35 and 100-200, both of which are internal zoom and internal focus giving them additional weather sealing in real world conditions. Nikon still has not updated their depth of field scale since the original Z7 of 2018. That icon of the flower and mountain on their scale is a joke. I realize that focus stacking is the modern replacement for the depth of field scale but it's not for me. I'm in the over 60 crowd and shot my first roll of 35mm film in 1977.
Good points! A real depth of field preview would be nice! You raise some nice features of the Fuji system. Internal zooms would be nice for those especially rough weather days. My Nikon stuff has done fine so far, but I always wonder a bit about the telescoping barrel in the heavier rains - a little bit of really hoping the gaskets and sealing on the Nikon lenses is ready for that! I did see recently that Mark Denney moved (or is seriously contemplating a move) from Fuji to Nikon. He was looking for additional focal length for his work. Thanks for the comment! I appreciate the insight!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography For 400mm telephoto landscape images full frame is the best option. I still love Nikon. I have a D780 and a Nikkor 24mm f3.5 PC, tilt shift lens that is great for landscape work. I also have a Nikkor 20mm f2.8 ais and Nikkor 200mm f4 ais. It is awesome how sharp these older lenses are. It's also amazing that we have so many choices. In the film era the choices were much more limited.
@@keithpeeples3565 It is definitely nice to have so many choices! Despite talking about a fair amount of gear and new gear on my channel, there really isn't a wrong choice these days as to what system to go with, so many great ones out there. A lot of times, my preferred recommendation is to simply go to a local camera store pick a few cameras up, see how they feel in the hand, how does the button placement feel, and see if the camera just feels good in had - because the tech specs are all so close to each other, that is rarely what is holding one back!
The D810 was definitely a solid camera! I think if this Z6III had hit that 33MP mark, I probably would have sold off my Z6II and slotted the Z6III in for that spot. And then still use my Z7II as my main landscape camera.
The Canon R5 is the camera I want but canon don’t make the lenses I want. I will not buy a camera with a 3.69 EVF no matter what. A Z7iii will be enough for me to move my R5 on and a Z6iii will be enough to move my XH2S on
Agreed! Lots of landscape photographers wondering about the Z6 III though. Love my Z7II! (The Z8 is too big in my opinion for landscape photographers who hike longer distances or over rugged terrain).
Definitely would like a Z7III option. Not sure I want it to have 80MP though. Mainly because the higher the MP goes, the more potential impact on dynamic range and low-light functionality. So there's sort of a balance there - until sensor technology manages to work past that. Which - who knows, maybe?
It is nice to have that's for sure - especially for habitual croppers like me! But not sure you *need* it. I have many photography friends photographing on 24MP cameras and turning out better work than me. Either way, a bump to 33MP with the Z6 III would have been super nice and just might have enticed me to update camera bodies - well, at least my second body.
With auto-focus being as good as it is on modern cameras, why wouldn't you use auto-focus? A lot of times I trust AF more than my own eyes in the field... ;) I recently did an informal poll in a landscape photography community I am in, asking who uses AF and who uses manual. I actually expected manual focus to be the predominant method of focusing. But almost everyone used AF more, and reserved MF for trickier situations or when the AF was hunting a lot and having a hard time locking in.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography If you're focusing at infinity, what value does auto-focus have? It uses the battery too. I suppose if you're focusing on something a few feet in front of you it has some value, but even that seems questionable since what you're shooting isn't moving. Maybe you were polling people so used to AF they they have forgotten how to focus manually? The one thing I was expecting to hear in this review was about the Z6iii's lack of dynamic range. That seems a much bigger issue to me for landscape photographers. This camera was made for speed, something I can't see being beneficial to landscape shooters.
@@MarkLewis-l3fFor me, only a portion of my photos are grand landscapes. Another portion is smaller scenes where the subject is closer to me - or focus stack situations with a strong foreground close to the lens and items further off in the distance. The folks I polled are all what I would consider a group of fairly advanced landscape photographers in their craft. Admittedly, my poll was certainly informal and would not hold up as a peer reviewed study! ;) And yes - on the dynamic range I fully agree with you. I recorded this video before some of the independent tests of the dynamic range started hitting the Internet, or it surely would have been a talking point as well. One of the features I'd like to see in a more landscape photography focused camera is as much DR as they can squeeze out - ideally a leap in technology on that front.
I'm surprised you used the Canon RP as the bar - it has 2x+ the MP of the camera I came back to landscape photography with and I believe my most sold print was off of that camera! NEED 45MP, no. But, I will admit having it with the Z7II is useful for two reasons - First, it lets me be a little more aggressive with my cropping which is a nice luxury - especially if taking a safety shot where I might shoot a little wider, knowing I have the pixels to work with. Second, Ive been printing more and more on metals for gallery shows and such, it is nice to have the extra MP for metal prints, which are a little less forgiving than a fine art paper or canvas print. But NEED - no, you don't NEED 45MP. Thanks for the comment!
Z6III is too expensive as for landscape photography (I don't shoot video at all). After all, i) where is my 33MP ???? ii) poor flippy monitor ... and iii) partial stacked sensor .. what a joke ... !!
Then don't buy it, because it's clearly not the camera for you - and Nikon haven't intended it to be. If you want those precious 33MP, go buy the Sony A7IV and enjoy that slow reading sensor and high rolling shutter. That's precisely why that sensor isn't in the Z6 III.
The Sony A7IV is what I've heard at least a few folks say they will look at. For me, that's not really the direction I want to head as I have a good amount of money in Nikon lenses and ecosystem. So swapping one camera out to a Sony from my standard kit, sets of a chain of really, really expensive events! ;)
I wouldn’t really encourage anyone to buy Sony 😉 But the challenge for Nikon would be how do they slot a potential Z7 III between the Z6 III and the Z8? Both in terms of spec and price point. What improvements are needed over the Z7 II? I mean they could give it the new processor and autofocus, but it probably won’t perform much better unless they can pull the same partially stacked trick on a higher resolution sensor. If they fully stack it, well that’s just the Z8…
@@nightowlnzab Ha! Pfew!! I'm not a fan of Sony ergonomics! And I agree, Nikon is in a tricky spot of how to slot their camera line to avoid stealing sales from a more expensive or higher margin line. I just want some of those Z8 features in a camera body the size of a Z7. I'd buy a Z8, except the camera body size is still a concern for me. I do appreciate your comments. It was been easy for me to say I would have liked the 33MP sensor, without realizing the downsides that would bring to the camera. So after reading some of the comments here it makes sense why they didn't do that. While I might have liked the higher MP sensor, it would have weakened the camera overall as a hybrid camera. I'm always learning something about the nuances of camera technology!
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Are you a landscape photographer? What do you think of the Z6 III? Upgrading or not?
I subscribed, Dad
If you are mainly using the camera for landscape, then go with the D-810, D850, Z7, Z8, or Z9 for the resolution.
@@ThePinoyAggie The Z7 and Z7II are great cameras for landscape photographers, love my Z7 II (my main camera). I'm mainly wondering fi we are going to get left behind in the landscape photography genre of photography. The Z8 and Z9 are too big - they take up way too much room in the pack and pack space matters to me as I hike distances over rugged terrain. I want the advantage of mirrorless from smaller camera bodies (like the Z6 and Z7 line).
Ultimately, I want some of those desirable features from the Z8 and Z9 line to trickel down into the smaller Z7 body to make and even better landscape photography camera. Plus, less emphasis on some of the video features in the camera might help reduce the price a bit and also keep a powerful, but affordable camera system on the market from Nikon.
Thanks for the comment!
I shoot landscapes, events, dancers/models, portraits and owned a Z6 II and Z7 II. I used them both for each, but recently purchased the Z6 III. The new body is very capable of photographing landscapes but it will be my “peoples” camera and I may relegate the Z7 II for landscapes. The 6 II has since been sold.
@@DezSantana I tend to use my Z6II as the "people" camera and my Z7II as the landscape camera as well. My Z6II does get used as a backup/secondary body on landscape photography outings though - it does good!
The Z6 line is not targeted at landscape photographers, that is why there is a Z7 line. There are many reasons why they keep resolution at 24MP (file size, readout speed, high iso noise etc) which are not huge concerns for landscape photographers, but are a big concern for wedding and event photographers.
The sensor shield is one thing I agree with! It is ridiculous in a third generation of camera, there is still nothing over the sensor protecting it when changing lenses!! The R&D team thinks all photographers work in a controlled indoor environment. Its ridiculous.
The Z7 line is definitely stronger for landscape photographers. I'm just hoping there is something in the roadmap that keeps us in mind, i.e. the Z7 III.
I do carry a Z6II into the field as my backup/secondary camera body. I'm just saying Nikon didn't really provide a good reason to spend the $2500 and upgrade it to a III as they released it. (And again, still a Nikon fan, the Z6III looks like a great hybrid camera to help keep them competitive in today's market - and I am glad they are staying competitive).
💯 logic & truth
I shoot with a Z8 and Z9, with most of my use-case being movement shots, and perhaps 15 to 20 percent landscape. I might be moved to an updated Z7iii, if it ever happens and if they improve the autofocus and fps versus the Z7ii. (I am a previous owner of the Z6ii, Z7ii, D850 and a couple of D750's.) In my movement shots, I can't always fill the frame with my subject and the lower resolution of the Z6ii became problematic for me when I did a substantial crop. But, if a Z7iii had at least 45.6MP, a significantly better AF than the Z7ii (no blackout!), a form-factor similar to the Z6iii, and at least 14-15fps, and the Z6iii EVF, if would be a great travel, hiking and landscape camera.
Yeah - for fast moving subjects, the Z8/Z9 with their improved AF would be welcomed. I do like the ability to crop a little more heavily with the higher MP in the Z7/Z7II or Z8/Z9, so a Z7III and improved AF with the smaller form factor of the Z7 body-style would be super nice to see!
Come on over to the Z8 world. Just bought one this weekend
It’s just so darn big! I have to lug that thing around over distances and stuff!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography The Z8 is the same as my old D850 and is Not Big .. If you ever had the D800/D810 0r D850 then thats the Feel of the Z8 = same size I am 73 and dont notice the Size/weight at all
@@Mr09260 I think the d850 is too big as well! And while I should be more weight conscious, it is really the size that bugs me. I already have the main camera body, backup camera body, lenses, and then my YT video/audio gear, plus snacks, clothing layers - I am sensitive to how large the camera body itself is. The z6 and z7 are near perfect size and to me, one of the advantages of mirrorless - lots of power in a smaller form factor.
Yup. Its probably the best thing one can get at this point in time.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography The D850 I get the battery that lasts all day and more, and the optical viewfinder is the best for shooting panoramas hand held at times.
It would be great to look for a z7ii sometime this year. I'd keep my z6ii. Appreciate your candid review.
I love my Z7 II - there’s been some great deals recently on them!
Well said. Z6 III is very impressive, great for video and an all-round camera. Having bought a Z7 II (refurbished nearly a year ago) for primarily landscape usage, I could not be more pleased. 45 mp I consider the sweet spot for me. The sensor is great! In extremely low light it does require manual focus. The images are great. An upgrade would be a Z8 but image improvement would likely not be noticed. So, maybe that is the upgrade and not a Z 7 III. Surely helpful for Thomas Heaton and Nigel Danson but certainly not me. Nor would I want a 60 mp sensor.
Yep - always happy to see Nikon releasing nice cameras, even when they aren't specifically for my niche!
I feel pretty good about my Z7 II, and despite me wishing the Z6 III had 33MP, I have no desire to see a Z7 III go above the 45MP we currently have. 45MP seems to work out pretty well for me.
The Z8 actually got slightly worse image quality at ISO 500 and lower
I shoot with the Nikon D850 it fulfills all that I want to do. I have a Z5 for casual or closer subjects that works well. Cheers.
The D850 is/was a great camera - definitely a flagship camera!
Couldn't have put it any better, Jeffrey, the viewfinder and low light ability sound great, but it is not an upgrade for a Landscape Photographer.
I feel they will definitely be announcing a higher resolution Z7III later this year, I bet they are already in the field trying it, if they get it right it will be a runaway best-seller for Landscape.
I really hope we get a Z7III!
Nah, from a corporate view an upgraded Z7 would make little sense. They got the Z8 if you wanted better specs. It would be nearly impossible packing the Z6III novelties into a Z7 AND maintain the price range. And a more expensive Z7 would be too close to Z8 territory.
@@ilduro2 I think for a Z7III possibility they need to ignore the video features and tailor it to still shooters - landscape photographers, studio portraits (or at the very least, non-event settings). Don't make the upgrades to the video, put in the faster processor solely for the AF improvements, fix some of the camera body design (keep the camera body Z6/Z7 sized - I don't like the larger camera body of the Z8 - that's why I didn't upgrade to it). That would let them push some of these features into a landscape/stills photography camera and keep the price down.
It is definitely getting a little crowded though on their camera body offering - so it might be at some point i just need to suck it up and use the bigger body of something like the Z8. It just annoys me as one of the selling points of mirrorless was smaller, more packable camera bodies and they're getting as big as DSLRs again.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography Couldn't agree more, Jeffrey. Though from a corporate point of view, Nikon have put in the R&D whether video be included or not. Now they want their return, not open two production lines and if some people move up to the Z8, even better (for Nikon). I, too, don't want the larger body. At the same time I am scratching my head over why there is now a Zf and the new Z6 catering to a similar market. Oh well, perhaps we should just concentrate on our pictures instead. Cheers!
@@ilduro2 Concentrating on our pictures instead of trying to figure out Nikon's roadmap is probably a much better use of time!
I was waiting for the Z6III for quite some time but finally jumped to the Z8 a month before its release. I already have a Z7 which I paired with a Z6, but I sold the Z6 as well as a D850 and some f mount lenses to jump to the Z8.
While I shoot a lot of other genres than Landscape that benefit from the Z8, I find the improvements in the Z8 make it a fantastic landscape camera. Better viewfinder, vertical tilting rear screen, illuminated buttons are only a few of the benefits. Others are better viewfinder assist tools and options, more buttons and better customization options.
The weight factor was one I was concerned about, but I found the extra weight is only marginal and it feels better in my hands. My Z7 is now my backup, and I enthusiastically grab the Z8 first in my outings
Thanks for sharing your experience with the Z8! What do you think about the extra size of the Z8? Does it bother you or did you get used to it? My size concerns are more with how it fits in the camera bag for longer hikes and with other gear than once it is out of the bag and in hand (if that makes sense).
When I first got it, I was a bit concerned. But after using it the concerns diminished. It’s dimensionally somewhat similar to the D850, but a bit slimmer. It fits nicely in my bag and doesn’t take up much more room than my Z7. I found my big issue with the D850 was its weight and size when paired with bigger and heavier F-mount lenses. The Z lenses are smaller and lighter. The Z8 feels really nice in my hands. I recently shot a wedding reception with it and carried it all day with no issue, and I’m 70, so I tend to be sensitive to weight issues.
I also found the benefits I noted are so nice to have on landscape shoots, I would really miss them returning to a Z7/II
I also think a Z7III is a long time coming if ever. It confuses the line-up. You can expect to see the Z8 on sale more at the $3500 price. With the increase price on the Z6III it leaves too little space between it and a newer Z 7. Feature wise, the only route Nikon could take is more megapixels which we don’t need. The current lineup of top end Nikons is pretty complete now.
@@ericlarson6180 Good to know that one can get used to it. I think I'll be content with my Z7II for a good bit yet, but maybe I should quit getting so hung up on the dimensions of the Z8...
@@ericlarson6180 I think Nikon could figure out how to slot it in - if I were trying to, I would keep the video specs nearly the same and just update the processor, get the lowlight AF, make some the screen enhancements and essentially polish up the current model with some of the updates from the other models (minus the video). That "handicaps" it as predominantly stills camera for landscape photographers, headshots, portraits and would let them keep a lower price on it, so as not to compete with the Z8 - which would be what you want for a hybrid camera. I do agree, a big MP increase isn't really what I'm after - especially from the Z7 line, pretty happy with the balance of MP to dynamic range we currently have.
I hear conflicting rumors on a Z7III - so too early to tell for sure.
No, Nikon didn't ignore landscape photographers, they just listened to the Z6 base who never asked for more resolution. Landscape photographers have the Z7 II or Z8 for that. Z6 shooters didn't ask for more resolution. The 5 or 6 Z6 shooters that wanted more resolution paled in comparison to the countless Z6 shooters who wanted better video at the same resolution. We got the perfect camera. A smaller, lighter, superior low light camera to the Z8 and the 33mp A7IV competitor. Glad Nikon ignored "more resolution" clowns.
And I wish them success on their hybrid camera!
📸
Z7's for Landscape
Z6's for Action & low light.
I think that is a super solid setup. I use my Z7II for landscape primarily, my Z6II comes with me as a backup camera body or to let me use a second camera at sunset/sunrise.
For any event (including running races) or portrait work I still do, I tend to grab the Z6II first and the Z7II acts as the backup body in those cases.
Most of us need a camera for holiday travel. Nikon z50 is the only best camera for travel landscape, period.
The Z50 is a nice camera - I use a Z30 for some of my videos and in a pinch have been known to use it as a secondary camera while my main camera is on a tripod waiting for some scene to unfold.
Still very happy with my D850, although if money was no object I would look at the Z8:)
It's hard to look at upgrading if the current tools are doing the job! The d850 is/was an amazing camera!
I've been looking into the Nikon-verse lately, out of curiosity and a desire to go back to FF from Fuji X-line; thanks for the video. More and more, it looks like Z7II is going to be the one - primarily because of the sensor, and my non-existent need for video features.
It doesn't look like a Z7III is on the horizon; on the flip side, a new camera release almost inevitably means deals on existing cameras, and by all accounts, the Z7II seems to be very relevant inspite of it being a bit old.
The Z7II is such a great camera. It is a really solid landscape photography camera. Even if they release a Z7III I've been trying to think what would entice me to upgrade at this point from a Z7II and I think it is a pretty short list!
And what if I need to upgrade from Nikon Z6? I do both landscape photo and video.
If you are doing landscape photo and video I think there are two paths forward to consider.
The Z6III, which will have video covered very nicely, but still be at 24.5MP. If you haven't found that a limitation with the Z6 (the resolution), then this could be a good path to go.
If you find 24.5MP limiting or just want more resolution then the Z8 starts to look like a good option. It has great video and you get the higher resolution. The downside, in my opinion, is that the camera body is bigger - which I am not a fan of. But it doesn't seem to bother a lot of folks.
Hope that helps!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography Thanks. No 24 MP hasnt been a issue so far. And size matters as I do hike a lot and want to keep it as light as possible. Would be nice with some news anout a z7iii already now
@@stigfloberghagenphotography Yeah, I much prefer the size of the Z6 and Z7 than the larger Z8. Would love to see a Z7III come out with the 45MP and some of the low-light features and such from the Z8 and/or the Z6III.
Completely agree. No compelling reasons to move from my Z7 II, and don't want to spend another $1K for a bigger, heavier Z8. I could see me sticking with the Z7 II for years if nothing tempting is announced. It's a great landscape camera.
The Z7 II is such a great landscape photography camera! I also could see sticking with it for many more years as well. Now, I'm apt to get tempted by some future model release from Nikon, but at the end of the day, my camera is certainly not the thing holding me back in my landscape photography work!
All cameras makers are pushing ahead with making hybrid cameras. Unless something changes, the days of a top line stills/landscape full-frame cameras may be over. Unfortunately medium format is very expensive and lens choice are currently limited (and very expensive).
@@jimbruton9482 Definitely still hoping for something that caters to us still photo folks. And really, though I am landscape focused these days, even fashion portrait photographers and such should be wanting just a good, solid stills photo camera.
Are you currently using a 24 MP camera to shoot landscapes? I certainly wouldn’t. I’d be shooting with/waiting for a Z 7III, hopefully with the 60 MP Sony sensor.
My primary camera is a Z7II, so I do appreciate the higher MP it has, I am a habitual cropper. With that said, I usually carry a second camera, a Z6 II and I use it all the time handheld while my main camera is on the tripod waiting for light or clouds and it does a decent job.
I would be okay if a Z7 III comes out if if sticks with 45MP for it.
Well said! 👍👍
Thank you!!
I would not purchase the Z6III for landscape photography. It was designed for wedding, event, and sports photographers. I don't think that there will be too long of a wait for the Z7III.
Agreed - the Z6 III seems a really strong hybrid camera, fast moving things, wildlife, and some really strong video features, but not a lot for landscape photographers.
I hope they announce a Z7III, that would be pretty awesome. Though, I'm trying to think exactly what I would want from it that would make it an obvious upgrade over the Z7II. Tilt or flippy screen, low-light AF, increased dynamic range would be awesome, like really push the envelope and set the bar for landscape photographers level of increased dynamic range.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography Just having the option for the High Efficiency Raw* upgrade would save a lot of space on the memory cards.
@@stanobert3475 Oh! I could see that!
It was designed for vloggers like us😊
@@VIDEOVISTAVIEW2020 I mean, the flippy screen would let me not carry a Z30 into the field and just get double duty from my backup/seconday camera body.
Jeffrey, even though the Z6III tries to cater to a wide audience, landscape photographers were not among its prime targets. For more MPs, there are the Z7II and the Z8. Instead, Nikon traded a very usable 24 MP for speed and better low light capabilities. To me that is more relevant as I have become increasingly versatile in my choice of genres over the years. I see many of my mates on the same path. Also, Nikon is trying to claw back market share with shooters creating own content on social media and the video community in general. For all those intents and purposes, I believe the Z6III presents an excellent choice being the Jack of many Trades - even if not all.
I do agree with you, the Z6III is a great jack of may trades and a really solid release from Nikon. Always happy to see Nikon remain competitive in the market. This video did approach it from a much narrower perspective of just the landscape genre - but if you add in even just say wildlife, the Z6III suddenly seems even better and a better fit. And if you start to add in other genres like sports or lowlight event photography, it also does quite well.
The best Nikon cameras I ever owned for landscape photography are the D810 and D850. The dynamic range of these two cameras are nuts!
Which X-mount Nikon camera for landscape photography actually comes close to the D810 & D850 you think?
Do you need a high dynamic range anymore? Exposure bracketing and photo editing softwares are so good in nowadays.
Those were both amazing cameras. And don't get me wrong, I am still a Nikon fan and am super glad they have cameras out there competitive in the market. And even if I don't think the Z6 III is the right camera for me, it is still a great camera and hope it sells like crazy!
As for dynamic range, the Z7II holds its own on that front - here's a DxO Mark chart for the d850, Z8, and Z7II compared:
www.dxomark.com/Cameras/Compare/Side-by-side/Nikon-D850-versus-Nikon-Z7II-versus-Nikon-Z8___1177_1361_1386
I still value high dynamic range in a camera. In fact, if there was something that could get me to upgrade to a Z7III (if one comes out), it would be a significant increase in dynamic range.
Yes, software is powerful and exposure bracketing certainly works well to work around it, I am ultimately a lazy photographer. If I can capture the range in one shot - count me in!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography if you value DR the Z7 II still is what you should be looking at.
@@cresk Yeah - the Z7II is my primary landscape camera. The Z6II is my backup/secondary body. The Z7II is a pretty great camera!
The Z6III is a crucial shot across Sony’s bow to let the world know Nikon doesn’t want to trail behind in the hybrid market. For me personally it’s the perfect video centric companion for my Z9. But no, it doesn’t bring much new to the party for landscape photography.
For sure! And I am glad to see Nikon fire that shot as well! A rising tide lifts all boats (cameras), so I hope Nikon does amazing with sales of this new camera!
So tell us what features and mp landscape photographers really need?
(disclaimer - I hardly ever take landscape photos - they have all been done - and I do not like the way people edit them with unrealistic colours)
Oh now - there are tons and tons of landscape photos that haven't been done, but I get the sentiment if you are only seeing the big iconic scenes over and over. Small scenes landscape photography has tremendous amount of room to explore in. Either way, I get landscape photography isn't everyone's thing - and nothing wrong with that! Plenty of genres out there to play in!
Your question is a good one, I've touched on it a bit in a few of my past videos, but things I'd like to see in my next camera body:
* 45MP or so is just about right for me, Z7 has that
* A 2-way tilt or flippy screen
* Good Vibration Reduction
* Good low-light Autofocus for those pre-sunrise and post-sunset times
* A Camera body no bigger than the Z6/Z7 line today
* lighter (but rugged) camera body materials to reduce the weight of the camera body
* A sensor shield would be nice
* Any increase in dynamic range they can figure out would great
* Any reduction in noise they can get would be nice too
* I don't really need anything but the most basic of video, mainly b-roll of scenes for me and the YT channel probably makes this one even niche among landscape photographers
I think those are features I'd like to see in a future camera body. Thanks for the question!
I think Nikon will need to update the z7ii eventually. If not they will be leaving a lot of z7 series users with no choice but to switch to a more expensive, larger and heavier camera or switch brands. I’ve really been thinking about just getting a used z7ii for a smaller option to my d810 for travel. But I still do like my D810.
I hope they do - or at least come model into that slot. I mean, I know I approach this as a landscape photographer, but really - high-end headshots, portraits, etc are also all served really well by a super solid stills camera without all the video baggage. Real AF is important to them, but I feel like that is easy to incorporate into the new cameras as the processors get faster, their algorithms for focus improve, etc.
The Z7II is a great camera if you're looking to make the mirrorless jump. I am super happy with mine!
Not at all, If I am a landscape photographer, I can use Z7II, Z7 or even D850, which all are in great prices. Z8/Z9/Z6III are mostly for wildlife and videographers
Yeah - those AF systems in the Z8/Z9/Z6III sounds pretty awesome for people photographing fast moving objects! And they also have very capable video qualities a well.
It does make me wonder where landscape photographers fit on Nikon's roadmap though moving forward or if we're just left with the Z7II.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I am sure there will be a Z7III coming soon, I'd guess a new 60MP sensor similar to 7RV. For wildlife, Nikon is a no-brainer 1st choose, that is just me 🤣
I'm still waiting on a high dynamic range, high mp 60mp, great auto focus camera. The z6iii doesn't do it for me. The z9 and z8 aren't for me. I do not need crazy speed and crazy video specs. I want to be able to put my really good apsc lenses on the camera and still have a lot of resolution to play with
Real close to my wants. Would love to see a breakthrough in technology on dynamic range - that would be such a win for landscape photographers. I would be fine with 60MP, but I can live with 45MP as well if that’s what it takes.
I feel like that is how Nikon slots in a Z7III, lessen the video specs, make the stills and overall camera body the best of the best while retaining Z6/Z7 camera body size. That lets them price it under the Z8/Z9, and folks that want the super good video, ultrafast and tweaked AF can go up to the Z8/Z9 for those features.
My wish from Nikon would be to introduce a Z7III with 60+ megapixels, improved dynamic range and better autofocus. I.E, market a photocentric camera in their product line. I use Canon now but as their future seems to be in hybrid videocentric cameras I would switch to Nikon ASAP!
@@jimbruton9482 I would definitely still like to see a photocentric Z7III. All the hybrid cameras from many of the brands make me feel like folks still doing primarily photos are being left out!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I think there's more of us than either the camera marketing depts. or the RUclipsrs that only talk about FPS, 4k, 6k, 8k raw video think. It's becoming a big turnoff to me. Thinking through and determining the ideal composition is more creative than turning on a video button. (thanks for letting me rant a bit).
@@jimbruton9482 I’m right there with you! (And I say that as a RUclipsr that does do video - I just have dedicated cameras for the video features I need). For my main landscape photography camera, I just want a good, reliable modern camera. Thanks or the comments!
Sensor tech for stills photography has pretty much peaked... The only reason new cameras seem so "video focused" is becasue that's an area where there's still tech gains to be made. Dynamic range improvements have pretty much plateaued, so you're not likely to improve upon your z7ii. Everything else you mentioned wanting in a new camera, the z8 pretty much already has. It has much better low light autofocus than the z7ii (thanks to the 10x more powerful Expeed7 processor), better tilt screen, and the nice sensor shield.... just just got similar VR to your z7ii... but as a landscape photographer, I dunno why that matters, cuz you're going to be on a tripod anyway, right?
I personally upgraded from the z7ii to the z8 about a year ago, and haven't looked back. It's just a much, much better camera all around (and I don't shoot ANY video).
I hold hope that there will be some breakthrough! ;)
I almost upgraded to the Z8, but the body size I find problematic. I really like the Z7 (or Z6) form factor, just the right size - feels good in hand, and doesn't take up so much room in the camera bag (which I value, especially with all the video gear I also haul into the field for the channel). I'd be fine seeing the video features stagnate, with more emphasis on some of the features you called out (i.e. faster processor, lowlight AF).
As for the VR, I am a heavy tripod user, but I also will happily handhold On most big outings I take both the Z7II and the Z6II with me, the Z7II goes up on the tripod, waiting for the right light or clouds, the Z6II I use handheld while I wait. Let's me capture more photos of different things without disturbing my main composition.
Appreciate the insight!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography I have a Z6ii and a Z7ii but I want to change them to a Z8. You don't intend to use one camera and its weight will be less than two anyway.
@@vitalisvasylius7390 I tend to carry two camera bodies into the field on my bigger photography outings - the Z7II and the Z6II. Partially to have a backup camera if I've traveled a distance for the trip. But also as a secondary body that I use while in the field.
I'm going to wait and see if a Z7III comes out this year - if not, I'll consider what my next steps are.
One thing that is starting to grow on me with the Z6III is the flippy screen - now that would let me use it as a secondary body *and* replace my Z30 as my video camera, which could lead to less stuff in my pack. Just not real keen on paying $2500 for that, but maybe at some super sale in the future it could start to make more sense.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography This is not a bad price, here in Europe for some reason the Z6iii costs 3000Eur=3250 USD
The Z6 III can't be all things to all people - it is intended as an all-round hybrid camera, do people equally complain about Canon's R6 II in this regard? If you want more resolution, there are other options in Nikon's lineup - the Z7 II is perfectly capable for landscapes, and if you need the combination of fast AF + high resolution, that's where the Z8 comes in.
A higher resolution sensor in the Z6 III would almost certainly have meant slower sensor readout speed (see the 33MP sensor in the Sony A7IV), leading to increased rolling shutter, worse video performance, and probably slower autofocus - assuming they couldn't go fully stacked sensor at this price point (and then overlap with the Z8/9). These are obviously issues they wanted to avoid in this sort of model.
Agreed - it can't be all things to all people. And it does seem to be a very strong hybrid camera, glad for Nikon on that front and I hope it sells well for them!
I love my Z7II, I just wonder where landscape photographers fall on their roadmap with this release of the Z6III.
Great points on the downside of the higher resolution and what potential impact it would have had on the rolling shutter issues, video performance and autofocus, probably would have weakened it as a hybrid camera - appreciate the insights!
Right now for full frame mirrorless, the best options for a more "pure" landscape/portrait/stills camera is the Z7 II, Canon R5 I, and the Sony A7RV (w/60 mp).
@@jimbruton9482 That sounds like the list I have in my head as well…
It's not interesting for me for landscapes. It doesn't really offer anything that the Z6 or Z7 don't already offer plus I hate flippy screens. It's clearly aimed at video shooters which is fine. The best mirrorless I've tried for landscapes was probably the S1/S1R if only it wasn't so big and bulky. If they came out with a slimmed down S1 with maybe 32mp and everything else the same that would be perfection.
I could probably forgive a flippy screen, though I prefer just a 2-way tilt like the Z8 has. That way awkward low or high portrait composed shots would be a little easier to see the screen.
I have a GX85 and G9, but have not tried the S1/S1R, maybe I'll need to check one out!
Let's not forget that Nikon has never been about making a landscape camera. Back in the 70s and 80s when Nikon was the king of Kodachrome for National Geographic and Sports Illustrated all of the professional landscape photography was done on 4x5.
That being said I am mainly a landscape photographer. My Fujifilm GFX50R weighs less than a Z8 and has that amazing and accurate depth of field scale built in. The incredible resolution is great for landscape. My main lenses are the GF 20-35 and 100-200, both of which are internal zoom and internal focus giving them additional weather sealing in real world conditions. Nikon still has not updated their depth of field scale since the original Z7 of 2018. That icon of the flower and mountain on their scale is a joke. I realize that focus stacking is the modern replacement for the depth of field scale but it's not for me. I'm in the over 60 crowd and shot my first roll of 35mm film in 1977.
Good points! A real depth of field preview would be nice!
You raise some nice features of the Fuji system. Internal zooms would be nice for those especially rough weather days. My Nikon stuff has done fine so far, but I always wonder a bit about the telescoping barrel in the heavier rains - a little bit of really hoping the gaskets and sealing on the Nikon lenses is ready for that!
I did see recently that Mark Denney moved (or is seriously contemplating a move) from Fuji to Nikon. He was looking for additional focal length for his work.
Thanks for the comment! I appreciate the insight!
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography For 400mm telephoto landscape images full frame is the best option. I still love Nikon. I have a D780 and a Nikkor 24mm f3.5 PC, tilt shift lens that is great for landscape work. I also have a Nikkor 20mm f2.8 ais and Nikkor 200mm f4 ais. It is awesome how sharp these older lenses are. It's also amazing that we have so many choices. In the film era the choices were much more limited.
@@keithpeeples3565 It is definitely nice to have so many choices! Despite talking about a fair amount of gear and new gear on my channel, there really isn't a wrong choice these days as to what system to go with, so many great ones out there. A lot of times, my preferred recommendation is to simply go to a local camera store pick a few cameras up, see how they feel in the hand, how does the button placement feel, and see if the camera just feels good in had - because the tech specs are all so close to each other, that is rarely what is holding one back!
That’s what the Z7iii will be used for
Hopefully! Seems really hard to tell if they will actually release a Z7III, but fingers crossed!
I always felt Nikons sweet spot for landscape resolution was 36 mpixels.
The D810 was definitely a solid camera!
I think if this Z6III had hit that 33MP mark, I probably would have sold off my Z6II and slotted the Z6III in for that spot. And then still use my Z7II as my main landscape camera.
The Canon R5 is the camera I want but canon don’t make the lenses I want. I will not buy a camera with a 3.69 EVF no matter what. A Z7iii will be enough for me to move my R5 on and a Z6iii will be enough to move my XH2S on
I love the Nikon glass, in a lot of ways I think that is what helps win people over.
Landscape photographers still have the Nikon Z7 II and the Z8. Not every camera needs to be the same of the same.
Agreed! Lots of landscape photographers wondering about the Z6 III though. Love my Z7II! (The Z8 is too big in my opinion for landscape photographers who hike longer distances or over rugged terrain).
We need a z7iii
With 80 megapixels
Definitely would like a Z7III option. Not sure I want it to have 80MP though. Mainly because the higher the MP goes, the more potential impact on dynamic range and low-light functionality. So there's sort of a balance there - until sensor technology manages to work past that. Which - who knows, maybe?
More likely a Z5ii or Z50ii will be next.
That would be disappointing, but I can see why they might feel more pressure to get a fresh release on one of those camera bodies.
You need 45 M Pixels for Landscapes
It is nice to have that's for sure - especially for habitual croppers like me! But not sure you *need* it. I have many photography friends photographing on 24MP cameras and turning out better work than me. Either way, a bump to 33MP with the Z6 III would have been super nice and just might have enticed me to update camera bodies - well, at least my second body.
You dont need 45 mp
@@tnglator You don't *need* it, but certainly is nice to have. Love my Z7II, partially for the higher resoution.
Why would a landscape photographer care about auto-focus...low light or otherwise?
With auto-focus being as good as it is on modern cameras, why wouldn't you use auto-focus? A lot of times I trust AF more than my own eyes in the field... ;)
I recently did an informal poll in a landscape photography community I am in, asking who uses AF and who uses manual. I actually expected manual focus to be the predominant method of focusing. But almost everyone used AF more, and reserved MF for trickier situations or when the AF was hunting a lot and having a hard time locking in.
@@JeffreyTadlockPhotography If you're focusing at infinity, what value does auto-focus have? It uses the battery too. I suppose if you're focusing on something a few feet in front of you it has some value, but even that seems questionable since what you're shooting isn't moving. Maybe you were polling people so used to AF they they have forgotten how to focus manually? The one thing I was expecting to hear in this review was about the Z6iii's lack of dynamic range. That seems a much bigger issue to me for landscape photographers. This camera was made for speed, something I can't see being beneficial to landscape shooters.
@@MarkLewis-l3fFor me, only a portion of my photos are grand landscapes. Another portion is smaller scenes where the subject is closer to me - or focus stack situations with a strong foreground close to the lens and items further off in the distance.
The folks I polled are all what I would consider a group of fairly advanced landscape photographers in their craft. Admittedly, my poll was certainly informal and would not hold up as a peer reviewed study! ;)
And yes - on the dynamic range I fully agree with you. I recorded this video before some of the independent tests of the dynamic range started hitting the Internet, or it surely would have been a talking point as well. One of the features I'd like to see in a more landscape photography focused camera is as much DR as they can squeeze out - ideally a leap in technology on that front.
They shoot landscapes with the Canon RP, bro lol come. Be real. You don’t need 45 mpx for landscapes.
I'm surprised you used the Canon RP as the bar - it has 2x+ the MP of the camera I came back to landscape photography with and I believe my most sold print was off of that camera!
NEED 45MP, no. But, I will admit having it with the Z7II is useful for two reasons -
First, it lets me be a little more aggressive with my cropping which is a nice luxury - especially if taking a safety shot where I might shoot a little wider, knowing I have the pixels to work with.
Second, Ive been printing more and more on metals for gallery shows and such, it is nice to have the extra MP for metal prints, which are a little less forgiving than a fine art paper or canvas print.
But NEED - no, you don't NEED 45MP.
Thanks for the comment!
I guess Nikon has a surplus of 24MP sensors originating from 2008 when they had the D3x in production😅😅😅
Ha! 😂😂😂
Z6III is too expensive as for landscape photography (I don't shoot video at all). After all, i) where is my 33MP ???? ii) poor flippy monitor ... and iii) partial stacked sensor .. what a joke ... !!
Then don't buy it, because it's clearly not the camera for you - and Nikon haven't intended it to be. If you want those precious 33MP, go buy the Sony A7IV and enjoy that slow reading sensor and high rolling shutter. That's precisely why that sensor isn't in the Z6 III.
Yeah - not an upgrade for me either. Hopefully we get a Z7III that checks all the boxes for a landscape photographer.
The Sony A7IV is what I've heard at least a few folks say they will look at. For me, that's not really the direction I want to head as I have a good amount of money in Nikon lenses and ecosystem. So swapping one camera out to a Sony from my standard kit, sets of a chain of really, really expensive events! ;)
I wouldn’t really encourage anyone to buy Sony 😉 But the challenge for Nikon would be how do they slot a potential Z7 III between the Z6 III and the Z8? Both in terms of spec and price point. What improvements are needed over the Z7 II? I mean they could give it the new processor and autofocus, but it probably won’t perform much better unless they can pull the same partially stacked trick on a higher resolution sensor. If they fully stack it, well that’s just the Z8…
@@nightowlnzab Ha! Pfew!! I'm not a fan of Sony ergonomics! And I agree, Nikon is in a tricky spot of how to slot their camera line to avoid stealing sales from a more expensive or higher margin line. I just want some of those Z8 features in a camera body the size of a Z7. I'd buy a Z8, except the camera body size is still a concern for me.
I do appreciate your comments. It was been easy for me to say I would have liked the 33MP sensor, without realizing the downsides that would bring to the camera. So after reading some of the comments here it makes sense why they didn't do that. While I might have liked the higher MP sensor, it would have weakened the camera overall as a hybrid camera. I'm always learning something about the nuances of camera technology!